Bath were looking for their first win in three following consecutive defeats to Leicester and Harlequins, while Northampton were looking to build on last week's 32-15 victory over Wasps.

Chances were difficult to come by during a tight first ten minutes but the deadlock was broken shortly after, when Northampton were awarded a penalty try following persistent infringements at the scrum.

Lamb added the conversion and on 25 minutes booted his side further ahead when he struck a penalty goal.

But indiscipline from the visitors cost them a large percentage of their lead, as Stephen Donald landed two quickfire penalty goals to make it 10-6.

However, Northampton had the final say in the first period, courtesy of a Lamb drop goal and penalty.

The visitors held a ten-point lead as the second-half got under way and were able to not only defend their lead, but also add to it courtesy of their second try of the afternoon and another penalty from Lamb.

The try came in the 63rd minute when Andy Long managed to ground the ball following a determined drive over the Bath try-line straight from the line-out.

The score came shortly after Lamb's third penalty of the afternoon, but it was substitute Stephen Myler on target with the extras on this occasion.

The hosts had failed to make the right impression in this match, and the contest was as good as over, but they did enjoy the lion's share of possession and territory in the final stages.

But Northampton held their line well and prevented Bath getting over for the consolation try that their efforts perhaps deserved.